Jotul F 500 2014 Firebox possible issue

[Electrician]

Hello all,

Thanks in advance for taking the time to look at my problem. While cleaning my Jotul F 500 stove for this season I pulled it away from the chimney thimble and saw this (see picture). The gaps that I circled go straight through to the firebox. They are about 3/8" at their widest point.

I don't understand how the airflow of this stove works very well, but it looks like this gap is giving the air/heat a direct path from the firebox to the chimney, so I'm going to lose a lot of efficiency.

Can I fix the gaps using a cement, or does this need more intensive work?

 

[begreen]

Good eye. It looks like the baffle board is breaking down and is ready for replacement.

 

[Electrician]

Good eye. It looks like the baffle board is breaking down and is ready for replacement.

Thank you. I consider myself a high level DIYer, how difficult is this replacement?

 

[Electrician]

Good eye. It looks like the baffle board is breaking down and is ready for replacement.

I went by my local Jotul dealer and was told that it should be replaced, but that it would be OK for this season. Thanks again!

 

[begreen]

I'd at least stuff some rope gasket in the gap to stop leakage bypassing the secondary burn system and heading right up the flue.

 

[Electrician]

I'd at least stuff some rope gasket in the gap to stop leakage bypassing the secondary burn system and heading right up the flue.

That is a GREAT idea. I just bought some 3/8" gasket to replace the gasket around the door and I got a few extra feet. I'll definitely do that!